Deals

The deal will see data-driven specialist Tradelab (part of Fimalac Group), a leading programmatic buyer in Europe and a web analytics and optimisation expert, integrated into Jellyfish. Comprising of 300 global experts, Tradelab boasts 120 specialists dedicated to technology, innovation and development alone and is a Google Marketing Partner.

Together, Jellyfish and Tradelab are giving birth to a new kind of global business partner. In addition to our integrated offering, which blends data, creative and media buying, Tradelab’s cutting-edge technologies will enhance the company’s value proposition across Google’s platforms, unleashing their full potential for brands across the world.

As well as raising the business’ headcount from 780 to almost 1100, the expansion will give Jellyfish a presence in new markets including France, Germany, Italy and Brazil, bringing the total number of offices to 30.

The deal will put the value of the new combined entity at circa £500m with the ambition to be a multi-billion market cap company. Further planned expansion in Australia, South East Asia, Latin America and Africa will ensure Jellyfish is well placed to be the first choice global partner for any brand’s digital requirements. We aim to differentiate ourselves with a globally unified and collaborative culture that results in better outcomes for clients.

Launched in 2005, Jellyfish has achieved 45% compound annual growth over the last eight years and has grown to become one of a select few globally managed Google Marketing Partners. In the last 12 months alone, we opened six new offices, often establishing itself in new territories including APAC, the Nordics and the Middle East. As well as being named agency of the year on numerous occasions, we also took a top 30 spot in the most recent Sunday Times International Track.

Jellyfish will continue to be led by co-founder and CEO Rob Pierre, CFO Chris Lee and its global leadership team. Yohann Dupasquier, CEO and founder of Tradelab will join the Jellyfish board.

Marc Ladreit de Lacharrière says: “Fimalac’s build-up strategy has proven highly successful in creating global leaders in financial ratings, digital media and production fields. Today I am very proud to help Jellyfish and Tradelab join forces to build a new global leader with a unique set of expertise and talents, helping brands navigate technology and data.”

Rob Pierre, CEO of Jellyfish comments: “Today’s brands need digital partners who are able to offer capabilities that go beyond the traditional agency model. Building a digital business that is fit for the 21st century means adding technology, consultancy and training to agency services, and on top of this, delivering them at scale.

Pierre added: “The synergies we felt with Tradelab and the shared goal of building a world-leading digital offering, made this an ideal fit for our business. The investment and subsequent expansion will enable us to continue building our global footprint as we bring the Jellyfish brand to all four corners of the world. As we head towards 15 years in business, this deal marks the beginning of an exciting new phase in the Jellyfish story. As one chapter ends, another begins and I for one can’t wait to get started.”

Yohann Dupasquier, CEO of Tradelab adds: “Data is everywhere and users rightfully want more control over the relationships they have with brands. We’re thrilled to scale our technology and data-by-design approach with Jellyfish. It is essential for us to help brands through this revolution and take a scientific approach to making them relevant everywhere in the world.”

Jellyfish and its shareholders were advised on the transaction by technology investment bank GP Bullhound.

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